While we are all focused on the important decisions facing us in the 2012 national elections, we must also take time to consider issues facing our local and state economy. The Nov. 6 ballot includes several amendments to the Louisiana Constitution -- among them one that will help us create jobs in our region.

Amendment 8 allows parishes to opt in to a program that provides a property-tax exemption to competitive projects in certain key target industries. These kinds of projects -- corporate headquarters, data centers, distribution facilities -- are very competitive, and Louisiana has often lost out to other states on similar projects in the past. Since many of our competitor states offer a lower property tax rate, we are at a disadvantage and are often overlooked.

The Legislature's approval of this property tax exemption for competitive projects, and voter approval on Nov. 6, would allow each parish to opt in to the program. No parish would be forced to participate.

For a parish to participate in the program, agreement must be reached among parish government, municipal government, the sheriff, school boards and the parish assessor. Opposition by any of these entities would exclude the parish from the program.

We believe that this is yet another effective tool that will make us more economically competitive, while providing individual parishes control and flexibility. From ethics reform to innovative work-force solutions, the elimination of unconventional business taxes to aggressive marketing, Greater New Orleans has made significant strides in economic development in the past several years. The property tax exemption for competitive projects will create new opportunities for us to diversify our economy and attract the kinds of projects that will employ Louisiana citizens for years to come.

Please join Greater New Orleans Inc., Council for a Better Louisiana, Louisiana Municipal Association, Louisiana School Boards Association, NOLA Gambit, Baton Rouge Business Report and The Times-Picayune in supporting this amendment. I encourage you to vote yes to Amendment 8 on Nov. 6.